Lets talk about weddings & hidden fee’s

Planning your wedding is amazing, lots of fun, super exciting and you will look back on these memories forever. 

Depending how far you are with your plans, you may have noticed that Wedding Planning also comes with a fair share of small, fine print. 

Hidden fees, unexpected charges and items that aren’t properly accounted or budgeted for can quietly sneak up and rack up your wedding budget. 

At From Yes 2 I Do, we believe every couple deserves transparency and confidence while planning their day.

So, let’s break down the most common additional costs you may encounter and how to avoid them…

Marrying on a bank holiday 

Marrying on a bank holiday weekend or a prime date can incur extra costs with the registrars, venue and also some suppliers. 

How to Avoid a Surprise:

If you do choose a prime date, make sure you are aware of the costings upfront. 

Overtime Charges

Dreaming of a dance floor that stays full past midnight? 

Many venues, DJs and bands charge extra if your celebration runs later than 11.30pm. This fee is often calculated per hour — and it can add up quickly.

How to Avoid a Surprise:

Ask your venue and entertainment suppliers upfront what their overtime rates are. If you know you want a late-night party, negotiate this early so it’s built into your contract.

Early Start Time Fees

Some suppliers begin their day long before your ceremony — especially hair and make-up artists. Early start fees often apply to bookings before 7:00am 

How to Avoid a Surprise:

Work backwards from your ceremony time to estimate when your glam team needs to start. If it falls into an early slot, ask for a clear breakdown of fees before booking.

Delivery & Teardown Fees

Décor, furniture, lighting and florals all need to be delivered, installed and collected. Some suppliers include this in their prices; others charge separately for labour, fuel, travel time and late-night collection. 

How to Avoid a Surprise:

Check your quotes carefully to see if delivery, setup, teardown and after-hours collection are included. If not, request an estimate in writing before confirming.

Dress Alterations

Wedding dress prices don’t usually include the cost of any alterations and chances are you may need a tweek somewhere.

How to Avoid a Surprise:

Before purchasing your dress, ask the boutique if they have a seamstress they recommend and ask for an approximate alterations cost. Be mindful that if you choose weight or change the height of your heels that the alterations cost may increase more than the estimate.

Supplier Meals

Most photographers, videographers, planners and DJs have a clause in their contracts requiring a meal on the wedding day. They would expect the meal to be purchased through the venue or catering team and be eating what the guests are eating. 

How to Avoid a Surprise:

Confirm with your caterer how much a meal for a supplier is and check the supplier contracts so the numbers match on both sides. Remember to check that your suppliers don’t have any allergy or intolerances! 

None of these fees are wrong or unusual however they can be frustrating if you’re not expecting them. By asking the right questions early, you can avoid stress, protect your budget and make informed choices.

I hope this has offered some clarity and comfort as you plan your special day. I’ll be back with our next post soon however in the meantime, join us on social media for more tips, inspiration and support.

With love,

Yasmin & Phil

From Yes 2 I Do